Tag Archives: audiobooks

Interview with Susan Rogers and John Roosen: Authors of The Yoga Mat Mysteries Series

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When it comes to crafting a compelling mystery, the characters often take center stage. In the Yoga Mat Mystery series, authors Susan Rogers and John Roosen prioritize their characters’ development, believing that a well-rounded character can drive the story forward in ways a plot alone cannot.

In this interview, they share insights into how they breathe life into their characters, ensuring that readers feel a deep connection to each one and how this approach has shaped the intriguing tales woven throughout their series. From the quirky personalities that feel like your next-door neighbors to the complex protagonists who must confront their own flaws, these authors reveal the magic behind creating characters that resonate long after the final page.

Q: You’ve mentioned on your website that your characters are more important than the plot. How do you ensure that the character development in your novels resonates with readers, and can you share some examples of how this approach has shaped your stories?

A: Great mystery stories are the perfect blend of interesting characters and a riveting plot that holds one’s attention until the eye-opening ending.

You can have a fabulous plot, but if the characters don’t resonate with the reader or listener, the story deflates like a punctured balloon. Readers or listeners must feel connected to one or more of the characters to keep going. After all, it is an investment of their irreplaceable time.

All our characters (40+ in the audiobooks) resemble real people (flaws and all). Capturing the quirky details makes a character stand out.

We love it when someone says: “I thought these people were real.”
We reply, “Aren’t they?”

Elaina Williams and Ric Peters appear in each of the works we write. In addition to the multiple mystery plots that we weave together, one of these two characters must overcome a specific flaw for that story. Following Aristotle’s classic tradition, this compelling structure underlies many of the timeless movies, plays, and stories.

Sub-characters within the plot help drive the story forward. Whether it’s Jack MacMasters and his laid-back wisdom, Professor Scott with his TackiNotes, Spin Bowler (an ethical hacker) who rides a skateboard, or Alfred Hastings a homeless street performer who looks like Falstaff—we delight in creating people that could live next-door.

“We love it when someone says: ‘I thought these people were real.’
We reply, ‘Aren’t they?'”

But wait for it … most of our characters ARE based on real people. Friends, enemies, neighbours and ‘rellies’ could appear in any plotline we create. The bus driver on our next bus ride, or the barista in a local café are characters waiting to be discovered.

Q: The series juxtaposes the serenity of a yoga studio with the chaos of the outside world. How did this unique setting influence the themes and tone of the books, and what challenges or opportunities did it present in crafting the mysteries?

A. Let’s be honest: We’ve had extraordinary experiences so far. We participated in sting operations and busted up illegal drug labs. Susan‘s served as a small arms trainer, and John blew up hazardous materials to render them harmless. Our working lives have been forged in chaos, so we’ve used various methods to create tranquility.

Moving from Dubai, UAE was another change-up. We came from the sands of the Middle East to the bustling sidewalks of Sydney.

Moving in, we inadvertently found a Yoga Studio close by. Imagine our surprise when we entered the calm and relaxed atmosphere, with highly polished wood floors reflecting the waning sunlight. The pulsating, 24-7 intensity of the city seemed to fade away at the door.

We began crafting our Yoga Mat Mystery series shortly thereafter. We liked the contrast that yoga brings to the story in both mind and body. And we use yoga throughout each book.

“And what if we get stuck writing? We roll out the yoga mats and work through some sessions. For many centuries, yoga has been used to tap into creativity. Why not use it in The Now?”

In Dead Man’s Pose, a man dies on his yoga mat in Chapter 1. The mystery surrounding his death becomes the bond between Ric and Elaina to find out why. In Cobra Pose, a false front yoga studio becomes a key element of the storyline. Elaina also uses a balancing move in a pivotal moment to save Ric.

In Tree Pose, Elaina and Ric, along with some friends, head to Tasmania. As a separate state below the mainland of Australia, Tasmania has a deep and dark past. Perfect for mystery writers! And the reader/listener gets to travel around ‘Tassie’ due to the yoga conference being held there.

While our stories weave in baskets full of suspenseful and perilous events, we purposely use the yoga theme to juxtapose these events. It includes the serenity inside a studio for channeling a pose or concentrated mind control to get through a specific moment.

And what if we get stuck writing? We roll out the yoga mats and work through some sessions. For many centuries, yoga has been used to tap into creativity. Why not use it in The Now?


Q: The protagonist and main characters, Elaina and Ric, have intriguing backstories as a former solicitor and a mysterious photojournalist. How do past experiences shape their roles in the series, and what makes them compelling leads for your readers?

A. Do we have to come clean here???? We are two writers working together compiling each of the stories. Our personalities are uniquely different. We have squeezed the essence of each of our personalities into the ‘juice’ that becomes Elaina and Ric.

In a like manner Ric’s life in the shadows becomes clearer as the series progresses. His life collides with the straightforward Elaina, whose sheltered existence has never experienced a life of false identities, dangerous operations, and trying to stay alive to complete a mission. It is this conflict that helps drive the storyline.

But it is their growing romance that provides the undertow of action moving each story forward.

In one instance, we wanted to ramp up the romantic inclinations of Ric and Elaina within Tree Pose, the third book in our series. Imagine us sitting together under a cabana on Tahunanui Beach, Nelson, New Zealand.

The beach is shallow with very slow-moving tidal action.

At the crucial moment in Tree Pose, there is a complex scene between Ric and Elaina that required our focused concentration. It creates a tension that will reoccur in future books. The world around us faded as we worked, and we didn’t notice the tide coming in.

When we finally looked up, we saw a group of people taking pictures of us knee-deep in the water. The Tour Guide leader pointed to us, saying loudly:

“And this is an example that time and tide waits for no one … including these writers!”

And how did we meld our characters past experiences to shape their roles in this crucial scene? Most often, we use a cocktail shaker with our joint ideas floating around.

This time, we shook the two spirited moments together and poured out the action, including all that delicious romantic fizz!

Q: Both of you have extensive backgrounds in diverse fields, from naval operations to environmental emergencies. How have your personal experiences influenced the themes and characters in your books, and can you share any specific instances where your past work informed your writing?

“If the world is a stage, our characters are always ‘at the ready’ to act on it.”

A: We’ve had a long history of working on projects together. Now finding new ways to work together is critical in our passion for writing.

As an example, when we served as designated law enforcement officers, we crafted a sting operation for life-threatening, illegal boat operations. John took on the role of a “potential partner” to gather evidence of the boat skipper’s wrongdoing.

The high-speed chase of the motorboat through San Francisco Bay was not unlike the chase we recreated in Dead Man’s Pose in the Sydney Harbour. Both waters were filled with sharks that periodically made an appearance looking for a pre-dinner snack. Swimming was not an attractive option.

Susan and the patrol boat finally came alongside the vessel forcing the skipper to heave to. Susan was particularly glad to clap a set of handcuffs on John’s wrist and get him off the motorboat.

Susan still has the handcuffs, just in case they’re needed.

In a similar manner, Ric and Elaina might play-act to solve a mystery, hide their purpose, save a life, or get more information. They aren’t above using improv activities, wearing a different uniform, or slipping between a barrier or into another role. If the world is a stage, our characters are always ‘at the ready’ to act on it.

Q: Given your experience in various international locations, how do you incorporate real-world geography and history into your novels to enhance the realism of your stories, and what role does research play in your writing process?

“… We’re all walking in and through history everywhere we go. Why not acknowledge what has been … with what could be … all within a storyline?”

A. As writers, we physically ground-truth every inch of the locations of our stories. This includes topography, transportation, services, buildings, distances, and any unique elements of the locale.

As an example in Cobra Pose, we travelled to Stradbroke Island, an island off the coast of Brisbane, Australia. We wanted to scope out an airfield there which becomes instrumental in the storyline.

Imagine us on the field with our tape measure and several cameras as we peer into hangers and check wind speeds. More than once, we have had to haul out our identification to let local authorities or curious passersby know that we are your ‘average mystery writer’ that has a keen desire for fresh realism.

And we do love history. We periodically include small historical facts that add to the atmosphere and depth of the story. Our readers tell us it helps ground the story to the locations.

After all, we’re all walking in and through history everywhere we go. Why not acknowledge what has been … with what could be … all within a storyline?

“We knew we wanted to be audiobook producers many years ago. We are delighted to a partnership with the internationally acclaimed Rupert Degas as our voice actor.”

Q: What’s next for Elaina and Ric in the Yoga Mat Mysteries series?

A: At the moment, we have three eBooks and audiobooks in the series: Dead Man’s Pose (with the locale of Sydney), Cobra Pose based out of Brisbane and surrounds, and Tree Pose, down in the deep darkness of Tasmania.

Buckle up! – We have the next four drafts on the firing line. Warrior Pose is next up, where we explore the South Island of New Zealand, and Half Moon Pose follows, where we check out France [which is] interspersed with Sydney. A dip into Melbourne and Alice Springs for book six and over to Greece for book seven.

The Yoga Mat Mysteries books and audiobooks are carefully crafted and fold in the richness of language, as well as the sound and arrangements of words. We knew we wanted to be audiobook producers many years ago. We are delighted to [have] a partnership with the internationally acclaimed Rupert Degas as our voice actor.

“We are not afraid of being different and breaking the rules … just like our characters.”

For us, anything can happen in our stories and usually does. We push boundaries – we think differently – we challenge the status quo.

We explore current themes, as well as timeless ideas. We are always seeking to entertain and delight the reader.

The reader/listener acts as a detective ununraveling the mystery. We weave our stories with the strands of adversity, evil, romance, love, adventure and braid the intricate threads into a golden fabric that we hope envelopes the reader like an amorous lover.

We are not afraid of being different and breaking the rules … just like our characters. ∎

View the book trailer for Dead Man’s Pose:

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 8 Discussion Questions for ‘The Women’ by Kristin Hannah

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We’re back with another Book Clubbin’ feature, and this round, we’re diving into The Women by Kristin Hannah, narrated by Julia Whelan.

Kristin Hannah, the bestselling author renowned for her emotional and impactful storytelling, delivers yet another powerful narrative with her latest release, The Women. Known for crafting stories that explore the complexities of relationships, human resilience, and historical events, Hannah takes readers on a journey through the Vietnam War era, shining a light on the often-overlooked experiences of women during this tumultuous time.

The Women follows Frankie McGrath, a determined young woman who defies societal expectations to serve as a nurse in the Vietnam War. The novel captures her journey from the battlefields of Vietnam back to the home front, where she grapples with the scars of war and the challenges of reintegration into a society that fails to acknowledge the sacrifices of women like her.

If you’re drawn to stories that delve into the untold aspects of history and explore the resilience of the human spirit, The Women is a must-listen. Kristin Hannah’s gripping narrative and unforgettable characters promise to leave a lasting impact on readers, offering both an intimate portrait of the personal cost of war and a broader commentary on the cultural shifts of the 1960s and ’70s. For those planning to delve into The Women with their book club, keep reading for our discussion questions that will enrich your understanding of this poignant tale. Beware— SPOILERS ahead.

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) What understanding of the Vietnam War did you bring into your reading experience? What did you find most interesting to learn?

2) How does Frankie McGrath’s character evolve throughout the novel, and what pivotal moments shape her development?

3) How does the novel portray the impact of war on personal identity and mental health, particularly for women like Frankie?

4) How do Frankie, Barb, and Ethel’s relationships with each other reflect the themes of friendship and sisterhood in the novel? Did you see parallels to friendships in your own life?

5) How did you feel about the evolution of Frankie’s relationship with her parents? Was it toxic or healthy that they reconciled?

6) Did you agree with Frankie that women who did not serve in combat but still went to war should have a place on her father’s wall of heroes?

7) How does the novel explore the theme of gender and societal expectations? In what was do you think society has evolved or still needs to evolve?

8) How do the themes of storytelling and sharing personal narratives empower the characters, particularly Frankie, to find healing and closure?

9) How did you feel about Frankie’s romantic interests throughout the course of the story? Were you satisfied with the ending?

10) Have you read other Kristin Hannah books? How did The Women rank compared to the others?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Can Audiobooks Make You Smarter?

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Exploring the Impact of Audiobooks on Cognitive Skills

Audiobooks have revolutionized how we consume literature and information, but have you ever considered their impact on our cognitive skills? Let’s explore the fascinating world of audiobooks and how they shape our minds and enhance our abilities.

Listening to audiobooks engages our brains differently than reading traditional books, as explored in our ‘Are Books As Good As Physically Reading’ blog post. It challenges our auditory processing skills, improves focus, and enhances comprehension. This unique form of storytelling allows us to absorb information while multitasking or on the go, making learning more accessible than ever before.

Research suggests that audiobooks can strengthen memory retention and language processing abilities. Immersing ourselves in spoken narratives allows us to exercise our imagination and expand our vocabulary effortlessly. Whether it’s a thrilling mystery or a captivating memoir, audiobooks offer a dynamic learning experience that stimulates various cognitive functions.

You don’t understand anything until you learn it more than one way.

– Marvin Minsky


As technology continues to advance, audiobooks are becoming increasingly popular among all age groups. They provide a valuable alternative for individuals with visual impairments or those seeking convenience in their busy lives. So next time you press play on an audiobook, remember that you’re not just listening – you’re also nurturing your cognitive skills in ways you may not even realize.


The Science Behind Audiobooks and Mental Stimulation: Fact or Fiction?

Audiobooks have undeniably surged in popularity over the past decade, and their impact on mental acuity is more profound than you might think. According to a study conducted by the Audio Publishers Association (APA), the audiobook listening market has expanded in the past year, with a majority of U.S. adults (53%) reporting that they have engaged with audiobooks, representing an increase from 45% in 2022.

Research corroborates the cognitive benefits of audiobook consumption. A study published in the Journal of Neuroscience found that individuals who regularly listen to audiobooks exhibit increased connectivity in brain regions associated with language comprehension and cognitive processing. This enhanced neural connectivity suggests that audiobooks stimulate the auditory cortex and engage various other regions of the brain, fostering holistic cognitive development.

In essence, listening to audiobooks is more than just a pastime; it’s a cognitive workout that can sharpen your mind and expand your intellectual horizons.


5 Ways Listening to Audiobooks Can Boost Your Knowledge and Intelligence

Listening to audiobooks is not just a convenient way to consume content; it can also significantly boost your knowledge and intelligence. Here are 5 ways how audiobooks can benefit your learning journey:

  1. Multitasking Efficiency: Audiobooks allow you to learn while doing other activities, such as exercising, commuting, or doing household chores. This multitasking capability helps you maximize your time and stay productive.
  2. Improved Retention: Listening to audiobooks engages your auditory senses, making it easier for you to retain information compared to traditional reading. The combination of hearing and visualizing the content enhances memory retention.
  3. Access to Diverse Content: Audiobooks provide access to a wide range of topics and genres, allowing you to explore new subjects beyond your usual reading preferences. This exposure can broaden your knowledge base and spark new interests.
  4. Enhanced Comprehension: Some people find it easier to understand complex concepts when they hear them rather than read them on a page. Audiobooks can help improve comprehension, especially for technical or dense material.
  5. Continuous Learning: With audiobooks, learning becomes a continuous process that fits seamlessly into your daily routine. You can listen on the go and absorb information consistently, fostering a habit of lifelong learning.


Debunking Myths: Addressing Common Misconceptions About Audiobook Learning

When it comes to audiobooks, some common myths often cloud people’s perceptions. Let’s debunk these misconceptions and shed light on the effectiveness of audiobook learning.

One prevalent myth is that listening to audiobooks is less effective than reading physical books. However, research has shown that audiobook learning can be just as beneficial for comprehension and retention. It all comes down to individual learning preferences.

Another misconception is whether listening to books truly counts as reading. The truth is that absorbing information through audio can enhance listening skills and stimulate imagination in a different way than traditional reading does. So yes, listening to books definitely counts as a form of reading!

Addressing these myths about audiobooks can help us appreciate their unique benefits in expanding our knowledge and fostering a love for learning in diverse ways.

We’ve put together a list of our recommendations to get you started:


Embracing the Audio Revolution to Enhance Your Mind and Skills

In conclusion, embracing the audio revolution can truly enhance your mind and skills in ways you never thought possible. By incorporating audio learning into your routine, you open up a world of possibilities for personal growth and development.

Whether you’re listening to audiobooks on the go, throwing them on during your commute, or using voice technology to access information hands-free, the power of audio is undeniable. It allows for multitasking, continuous learning, and easy accessibility to a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips.

So why not take advantage of this incredible resource? Immersing yourself in audio can expand your horizons, keep you informed on the latest trends and topics, and boost your creativity and productivity. Let’s embrace this new era of auditory learning and unlock our full potential.

Click here to browse audiobooks


Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Book Clubbin’: 20 Discussion Questions for ‘The Sun Sets in Singapore’ by Kehinde Fadipe

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For this round of our Book Clubbin’ feature, we’re taking a look at The Sun Sets in Singapore by Kehinde Fadipe, narrated by Dami Olukoya.

Basking in the perpetual sunshine of Singapore, Dara, Amaka, and Lillian find themselves ensnared in the allure of luxury—until a mysterious and handsome newcomer disrupts their close-knit community, shattering their idyllic existence. Dubbed “wanderlust-inducing” by Lola Akinmade Åkerström, this Today Show #ReadWithJenna Book Club Pick unfolds against the backdrop of the Lion City, a place known for its decadent street food, world-class shopping, and lush gardens teeming with tropical blooms.

In The Sun Sets in Singapore, Kehinde Fadipe skillfully captures the vibrancy of the metropolis through the perspectives of these three resilient women. As they navigate the glittering surface of Singapore, they are about to discover that unresolved histories have a way of catching up, even in a city that seems worlds away from home. The listen promises a dazzling exploration of friendship, the complexities of female ambition, and the defining factors that shape our identities. Jenna Bush Hager, in praising the book, describes it as a captivating tale that delves into the essence of friendship, the support structures we rely on, and the intricate elements that define who we are.

If you haven’t listened to The Sun Sets in Singapore yet, take a sneak peek into our exclusive excerpt that’s sure to entice you. And if your book club is picking up this listen from Kehinde Fadipe, keep reading for our discussion questions below. Beware— SPOILERS ahead.

—————CONTAINS SPOILERS!—————

1) At the beginning of the novel, Dara reveals that she’s dedicated the last six years of her life to work, prioritizing her career over personal relationships. Did you admire Dara’s unwavering commitment to her career? Or did you find yourself questioning her prerogatives? In your own life, where do you prefer to channel your energies?

2) Before Dara moved to London to live with her mother, she lived in Lagos with her maternal grandparents. Other than a respect for formality, what do you believe Dara inherited from Granee and Grandad? How do you think being raised by grandparents who loved Nigeria and then a mother who rejected her Nigerian identity impacted Dara’s perception of her heritage?

3) Amaka buys luxury items to temporarily relieve the pain and resentment she feels toward her family, but the consolation is always short-lived. When did you realize that Amaka’s coping mechanism was having its own detrimental effects? Have you ever had a friend or family member fall into a similar situation? How did they work through it?

4) Discuss the mixed feelings Lillian has about her piano—the reasons she played and stopped playing, the connections it gave her to her parents and her past, her resentment and appreciation for it, etc. Symbolically, what did the piano represent?

5) Amaka’s mother, Ugo, was constantly worried that Amaka would “repeat her mistakes” and find herself in a situation that would force her to rely on a man’s generosity. Even as Amaka made a significant amount of money as a credit risk officer, this apprehension never went away. Do you think Amaka ever internalized this worry? How would this have impacted her relationship with Rohit, despite his kindness and reliability? Considering Amaka’s childhood, do you think her anxiety regarding men stemmed more
from her father or her mother? Why?

6) Lillian moved to Singapore with her husband, Warren, when he was transferred for work. Leaving Philadelphia, however, made her feel unmoored, lonely, and isolated. Have you ever made a similar move in your life, one that forced you completely out of your comfort zone? How did you handle the stress and uncertainty? By contrast, how did you handle the excitement? Explain.

7) At her therapist’s office, Lillian admits that, since she was young, she’s struggled to make life-altering decisions, like having a child or not. Have you ever similarly struggled? Who do you lean on when you have to make difficult choices? If you had met Lillian in real life at this stage in her journey, what advice would you have given her?

8) Lillian and Amaka (and an initially reluctant Dara) participate in an expat book club in Singapore. How did the book club foster a sense of community among its members?

9) Out of all the book club members (Kike, Yemisi, Nana, and LeToya), which character did you respond to the most? At the first meeting, what book would you have recommended that everyone read next?

10) Because Ugo’s traditional marriage to Chukwu was dissolved, and he legally married another woman, Amaka and Ugo lived apart from him, which put a great strain on the family. How did you feel learning the details of Amaka’s family dispute? Did you find yourself leaning toward the side of Amaka and Ugo or the side of Amaka’s half-siblings? Why? How would you have navigated such a conflict?

11) In Kike’s dressing room, Dara makes the following remark: “That Kike Ibusun was not the sharpest tool in the box was what Dara suspected she wanted you to believe. Dara had spent too long as an outsider at school and at Oxford not to recognize the sharpness behind that public schoolgirl insouciance. Pretending to be thick was a privilege only girls whose parents had spent half a million pounds on their education could afford.” Unpack the implications of this observation, accounting for Kike’s unique family
circumstances. Why do you think a privileged, highly educated young woman like Kike would deliberately hide her intelligence? What purpose would it serve?

12) Dara also finds it ironic that Kike—the well-connected daughter of a former governor—disapproves of the fact that Lani “had help” getting his role in Geneva: “Maybe when you [stand] on a mountain for so long, the ground [starts] to feel flat.” Discuss how the author calls attention to nepotism and class divides throughout the novel. Did you agree with Dara that Kike was unaware of her privilege in this scene?

13) The author describes the atmosphere and topography of Singapore throughout the novel, imbuing the story with real-world charm. As you were reading, what setting piqued your interest the most? Fort Canning, where Dara and Amaka went for their run? Sentosa, where Amaka and Lani had their first date? The Botanic Gardens, where Lillian and Warren had their conversation? Yishun, where Lillian move to and had dinner with Amaka at the open-air market? Why?

14) Discuss Lillian’s research into reincarnation and the events that prompted her to pursue this inquiry. How would you have responded if Lillian had shared her speculations with you directly? What are your own thoughts on reincarnation?

15) Discuss how the author highlights the economic disparities in Singapore, such as Amaka’s comment to Lani about the gap between the wealthy and the underserved, the cost of rent that Lillian considers when moving to Yishun, or the fact that residents are surrounded by luxury brands but also migrant workers, laborers who sacrifice time with their families in order to make a living in Sing dollars, often residing in cramped living quarters with extremely controlling managers.

16) At Kike’s party, Nana reprimands Dara for not reading books authored by writers like Teju Cole, Helen Oyeyemi, and Noviolet Bulawayo: “You’re basically reading a bunch of books by dead white men and leaving no space to discover your own writers.” Did you agree or disagree with Nana at this moment? When you’re choosing new books or new writers to read, what factors do you take into consideration? While reading, what is most important to you?

17) Discuss how friendships grew and changed throughout the course of the novel between Dara, Amaka, and Lillian. How did the women lean on one another? How did they hurt one another? How did they rebuild trust after it had been broken? How have friendships in your own life been ruptured and mended, and what have you learned about yourself—and others—navigating these experiences?

18) Throughout the novel, Lillian has a recurring dream where she’s drowning. What elements of her past were folded into the dream, and how did you feel reading the hypnotherapy scene in which Lillian worked through these memories with Dr. Geraldine?

19) The author weaves Greek mythology throughout the text, especially in Dara’s point of view. How did the mythological references parallel the plot of The Sun Sets in Singapore? Did the allusions enhance your experience of reading the book? Why or why not?

20) How did you feel about the end of the novel and the resolutions offered for each character? Ultimately, did events play out differently than you expected? Why or why not?

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

Prepaid Gift Subscriptions: Your Guide to Gifting

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On the hunt for the perfect gift for the book lover in your life? Not sure which books are on their TBR (to be read) list? It’s hard to know which books they already own, which they’re dying to read, and of course, what format they want to read them in.

That’s why we think gift shopping is made a whole lot easier when you can give that special someone access to over 425,000 audiobooks by gifting them an Audiobooks.com gift subscription. Talk about a book lover’s dream.

With 1, 3, 6, and 12-month prepaid subscriptions to Audiobooks.com, you can find the perfect gift for everyone. Click here to visit the Audiobooks.com gift center, read our step-by-step guide below on how to purchase a prepaid gift subscription, and don’t forget to check out our frequently asked questions below before grabbing a gift that will really speak to them.

How to purchase a prepaid gift subscription (step-by-step)

1. Navigate to https://www.audiobooks.com/gifts/give.

2. From the four options (1, 3, 6, or 12 months), click on the option you’d like to purchase.

3. Next, you can select a special design to be included with the gift subscription. The birthday and thank you options will always be available, and the third option is swapped seasonally.

4. You will then scroll down and will then decide how you’d like to deliver the gift to your recipient. If you select Email, you can either send it right away by choosing Now, or you can send it on a specific date by selecting Choose a delivery date.

If you’d like to give this gift in person, then you can select Print.

You will then enter the recipient’s information into the To field and your own information in the From field.

5. Next, scroll down and enter the personalized message that you’d like included with your gift. This is optional; if you do not input a message, a pre-populated message will be included.

6. Your final personalization option is to include a recommended audiobook. This will simply be a recommendation for how they should spend their monthly credit, and the audiobook will not be gifted to them. To select a recommended audiobook, click the Select an audiobook button. A pop-up will appear where you can search for the audiobook you’d like to recommend.

7. Once all your personalization and information has been filled out, click Continue to checkout.

8. If you are already an Audiobooks.com member, click Log in Now at the top of the screen. If you are not a member, you must create a FREE Audiobooks.com account by filling out the Account Information. You will then enter your billing information below that. Note: you will only be charged for the prepaid subscription and will not be signed up for a paid Audiobooks.com account.

9. Once your Account Information and Billing Information have been completed, you can review this page to ensure your order details are correct. If everything looks good, you will then click Confirm Purchase.

10. You will receive an email confirming your purchase. Once your recipient has redeemed the gift you’ve sent them, you will receive another email to confirm that they have redeemed it.

And that’s it! All that’s left is for your gift recipient (or yourself if you decided to treat yourself) to enjoy access to 425,000+ audiobooks, extra listening with our VIP Rewards, and tons of other member benefits every month!

Already an Audiobooks.com member and purchased a prepaid subscription for yourself?

To apply the prepaid subscription that you’ve purchased to your account, simply log in and navigate to audiobooks.com/gifts/give, and in the top section where it asks, Want to redeem a gift? You will enter the gift code you received after purchasing your prepaid subscription and click Submit.

Ready to get gifting? Click here to shop our gift center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Audiobooks.com gift subscription include?

When you give the gift of listening with an Audiobooks.com subscription, the recipient will get one audiobook credit per month to select any audiobook from our library of over 425,000 titles. They will also get access to these member-exclusive benefits:

  • Extra free listening every month with our VIP Rewards program
  • Unlimited access to over 10,000 free audiobooks
  • Exclusive Member Deals, family sharing, and so much more!

How do I get the gift to its recipient?

We’ve made it easy to get your gift to that special someone. You’ll get to choose between an email and a printable gift option at the time of purchase.

If you’re celebrating together, select “print” while purchasing and you’ll be given a custom page with the recipient’s name and the exciting details of the gift to print out and give to them in person.

If you’re celebrating apart, select “email” during the purchase process and we’ll send all of the exciting details directly to the recipient on the date of your choosing.

Do gift memberships expire?

As with any member account, credits added to a gift subscription will expire if not redeemed within 90 days. Once redeemed, members get to keep their audiobooks forever! All bonus titles, including those downloaded from our VIP Rewards program, will be removed from the account at time of cancel (or when the gift runs out).

Can I prepay for my own membership?

Definitely! Prepaying for your membership is a great gift to yourself. Plus, you’ll get a discount when you purchase a 3, 6, or 12-month membership in advance.

Can I give a specific audiobook as a gift?

Though we don’t offer the option to gift a specific audiobook, we suggest giving a gift membership as a great alternative. You can recommend a book that you think the recipient will love, while ultimately giving them the choice of what they want to listen to.

If you’re looking for the perfect audiobook to suggest to a loved one, check out these curated book lists:

Can I add a gift to an existing account?

Yes! Adding a gift membership to an existing account will automatically delay the next payment date to be after the gift ends. To add a gift membership to your account, simply:

  1. Visit www.audiobooks.com and ensure you’re logged in
  2. Navigate to our gift center by scrolling all the way to the bottom left of the page and clicking “gift center”
  3. Enter your gift code and select “submit”

Once accepted, the website should navigate automatically to your My Account page and reflect your adjusted billing date.

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!

How Audiobooks Can Help You Fall Asleep Faster and Stay Asleep Longer

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What is an Audiobook, and How Does it Impact Sleep?

Audiobooks have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to relax and unwind after a long day. But did you know audiobooks can also help you get better quality sleep? Studies have shown that listening to audiobooks before bedtime can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Follow along with us today as we explore the impact of audiobooks on sleep and how they can be used to improve your sleep quality.

How Listening to an Audiobook Can Help You Combat Sleepless Nights

We all know how difficult it can be to fall asleep at night, especially when your mind is racing with thoughts you can’t control. Listening to an audiobook before bed can be a great way to help you relax and ease into sleep. Not only does it give you something else to focus on instead of worrying about the day ahead, but audiobooks also have the potential to help you fall asleep faster and avoid the temptation of endless social media scrolling before bed.

If you’re looking for an audiobook to carry you off to Dreamland, we recommend Mythos by Stephen Fry.

Benefits of Listening to a Story Before Bedtime That Will Help You Sleep Deeper and Longer

Listening to stories before bedtime can help you sleep better and longer. Audiobooks are a great way to relax and unwind before going to sleep. The soothing sound of the narrator’s voice, especially when you don’t have to pay close attention to the story, creates a lullaby effect that can help you drift off into a deep sleep. Listening to stories can also help reduce stress levels, which is important for getting quality sleep.

What are the Best Types of Audiobooks For Sleep?

Okay, so you’re ready to try it out and listen to an audiobook as you fall asleep, but where do you begin? Not all audiobooks are created equal when it comes to helping you drift off into a peaceful sleep. The best types of audiobooks for sleep include soothing soundscapes, calming stories, and narrators with relaxing voices. Whether you prefer the sound of rain falling on a lake or the gentle whispers of an audio drama, there’s an audiobook out there that can help you drift off into dreamland.

We’ve put together a list of our recommendations to get you started:

• Bedtime Stories for Grown-Ups by Ben Holden, narrated by Ben Holden, Esther Wane, Luke Thompson, Sandra Duncan, Gareth Armstrong

• Deep Sleep Music by Yella A. Deeken, narrated by Ian Brennan

• Nothing Much Happens by Kathryn Nicolai, narrated by Kathryn Nicolai

• Sleep Well by Sue Fuller, narrated by Sue Fuller

Looking for Book Recommendations?

• Here are the audiobooks our members have been loving, along with our staff picks that we’ve been championing.

• Looking to share your love of books? Our handy Book Clubbin’ questions make it super easy to start a book club. Or, Netflix n’ buddy-read with this year’s book-to-screen adaptations (just be prepared for the perennial debate: is the book better than the movie/show?).

• If you’re looking for something extra, we’ve got author and narrator interviews to give you a gleam inside their worlds.

• For the curious-minded, audiobooks can teach you a thing or two, from nature therapy to personal finance. It can even keep the little ones busy so you can steal some time back for yourself.

New to Audiobooks.com? Get your first book free, PLUS a bonus book from our VIP selection when you sign up for our one-month free trial. Digital audiobooks make audible stories come to life when you’re commuting, working out, cleaning, cooking, and more! Listening is easy with our top-rated free audiobook apps for iOS and Android, which let you download & listen to bestselling audiobooks on the go, wherever you are. Click here to get your free audiobooks!